Blundell's Pupil Crowned BBC Young Chorister of the Year 2026
Blundell's School in Tiverton, Devon, is celebrating an extraordinary musical achievement after pupil Ginevra was crowned BBC Young Chorister of the Year 2026, following a stunning performance in the national final, broadcast on BBC One's Songs of Praise on Sunday 18 October.
Ginevra impressed the judges throughout the prestigious competition, receiving exceptional praise for her vocal talent, musical interpretation and captivating performances. One judge described her singing as "a performance I shall never forget."
Her success marks the culmination of an exciting musical journey, reflecting years of dedication, hard work and a remarkable passion for singing.
An enthusiastic member of Blundell's thriving musical community, Ginevra has embraced a wide range of performance opportunities, including appearing in the school’s production of Les Misérables. Her achievement is a testament not only to her individual talent and determination but also to the importance of nurturing young performers and giving them the confidence to pursue their ambitions.
At Blundell's, Ginevra has distinguished herself as an exceptionally versatile musician, equally at home in the choir stalls, on the concert platform and on stage. As a leading soprano in the school's choirs, she has performed at Westminster Abbey, Exeter Cathedral, Bath Abbey and St Mark's Basilica in Venice. Her voice also features prominently on the school's professionally recorded Christmas album, A Blundell's Christmas.
Ginevra has been a featured soloist in major school performances of Handel's Messiah, Mozart's Requiem and Vivaldi's Gloria. She was also a member of the solo quartet for the world premiere of Joanna Forbes L'Estrange's A Season to Sing at Blundell's, and gave an outstanding performance as Cosette in the school's production of Les Misérables. Alongside her vocal achievements, Ginevra is Leader of the School Orchestra and studies A Level Music.
Gareth Pearson, Head of Blundell's School, said:
"We are absolutely delighted for Ginevra. To be crowned BBC Young Chorister of the Year is an extraordinary achievement and one of which she should be immensely proud.
"Throughout the competition, she has demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication and courage, and it has been wonderful to see her passion for music recognised on a national stage.
"The whole Blundell's community has been behind her every step of the way, from our youngest pupils cheering her on to the staff and families who have followed her journey so closely. She is an inspiration to our pupils, and we could not be prouder."
Andrew Johnson, Director of Music at Blundell's, said: 
"Ginevra is one of the finest young sopranos I have taught. She has a remarkable ability to adapt her voice to different repertoire, whether singing in a choir or performing as a soloist in opera and musical theatre. She is also an exceptionally intelligent and instinctive performer, with outstanding sight-reading skills.
At Blundell's, we are incredibly proud of the breadth of musical opportunities we offer, and Ginevra has embraced these wholeheartedly. What has particularly impressed me is the way she has developed her solo singing to such an exceptional standard, while keeping choral singing at the heart of her musical life and enjoyment.
It has been a real privilege to work with Ginevra and watch her develop as a musician throughout her time at Blundell's. To see her exceptional talent recognised on a national stage is a wonderful moment, and I could not be more delighted for her."
Reflecting on her win, Ginevra said: "To everyone at Blundell's, I'd like to say a MASSIVE thank you for supporting me!”
Ginevra's success has been celebrated across the Blundell's community, with pupils and staff enthusiastically following her progress throughout the competition.
Music plays a central role in life at Blundell's, with pupils encouraged to explore a diverse range of musical opportunities, from choirs and instrumental ensembles to musical theatre and individual performance.
Ginevra's national success is a wonderful example of the ambition, creativity and musical excellence fostered within the school.
